After launching the Hector Plus on 13 July, MG motors will come-up with its 4th product in the Indian market sometime around the Festive season. It will be the Gloster SUV, which was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. Currently, it's in the testing phase. Recently in Gujrat, It has been spied with the least camouflage hiding the brand's logo.
MG Gloster: What do the leaks show?
As seen in the images, it is likely to come with the double barrel-dual exhaust system which is different from the model displayed at the Auto Expo. Apart from this, the design of alloys is also distinct from the expo model. Hence, it is safe to assume that it might not be the top variant and the alloys of different designs (dual tone machine cut) can be seen in high-spec.
All the other elements including the LED taillamps, rear bumper with faux skid plates, side profile, that can be seen in images are quite similar to what we have seen in the expo. Even a glimpse of the layout of the infotainment looks alike to its prototype model.
The Gloster gets a huge black color cladding on its lower profile which gives it a rugged look. It also features a silver side-step, suiting to its large muscular characteristic. It is likely to get 19-inch wheels.
On its rear wheel-arch cladding, a proximity sensor can be seen. This means that the Park Assist feature can be given in it.
Features
The MG Gloster will be a features-loaded full-size SUV. It is expected to get a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with e-SIM connected car technology, digital instrument cluster, leatherette upholstery, panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, separate AC vents in 2nd & 3rd row, air purifier, ventilated front seats, 360-degree parking camera with Park-Assist function, etc.
On the safety front, it is likely to host features like multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, front, side & rear parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), traction control, hill hold control, hill descent control and drive modes for different terrain conditions.
Powertrain
MG hasn't disclosed the engine details yet. However, like its global counterpart (Maxus D90 available in China) it might get a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine & a 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine. Both engines are expected to come with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
Rivals
In the Indian market, this upcoming premium offering from MG will compete with segment leader Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Mahindra Alturas G4, Skoda Kodiaq and Isuzu MU-X.
Author's Take
MG Motors has received a good response in India since the launch. The company is working to strengthen its hold in the SUV segment. Currently, the full-size SUV segment is dominated by Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. Even the Mahindra's premium offering, Alturas G4 struggling to get the place it deserves. In such a situation, competition for Gloster is going to be very tough. However, its price-tag may work in Gloster's favor.